NHS Haemorrhoids | Deeping Surgical

What are Haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids (or piles) are swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus that cause discomfort, bleeding, and itching. Often they can be treated conservatively by simple measures such as eating more fibre of drinking more water. If these measures are unsuccessful, we can offer banding of internal haemorrhoids.

When Should I Seek Treatment?

Persistent or recurrent bleeding

Pain or prolapsed haemorrhoids

Failed response to creams or dietary changes

What is the NHS Criteria for this procedure?

HAEMORRHOIDS (Banding treatment available at Deeping Surgical) *NO prior approval needed*

The ICB will only fund the treatment of haemorrhoids when the following criteria are met:

The patient has not responded to non-operative conservative measures

AND

in either of the following circumstances:

Severe (grade 3 or grade 4), which combine internal/external haemorrhoids with persistent pain or bleeding

OR
Irreducible and large external haemorrhoids

EXCLUSIONS:

In cases where there is significant rectal bleeding the patient should be examined internally by a specialist in secondary care.

What is Banding?

Rubber band ligation is a non-surgical treatment. A small elastic band is placed around the base of the haemorrhoid, cutting off blood supply so it shrinks and falls off within days.

What to Expect Before and After Surgery

Performed in 20 minutes without anaesthetic

Mild pressure or discomfort for 1–2 days

Avoid straining and heavy lifting

Return to normal activity same day or next

What Are the Risks?

Mild bleeding after 5–10 days (as the banded tissue falls away)

Discomfort

Very rare: infection or heavy bleeding

How Do I Prepare?

Follow the pre-procedure guidance contained in the Patient information Leaflet.

Medications: Inform the doctor of any medication and supplements you are taking.

Eat and drink as normal on the day.

Patients Asking a doctor Questions _edit

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is it painful?
A: Most people feel a sense of pressure, not sharp pain.

Q: Will I need time off work?
A: Usually not — you can return to normal activities and work straight away or as soon as you feel able.

Haemorrhoid Banding